Suvarnamukhi and Thottikallu: Trekking along Bangalore’s outskirts

Overview: I had done this as two separate trips but both the places are interconnected and can be done by trekking between the places. Lying just on the outskirts of Bangalore is Suvarnamukhi next to Bannerghatta National Park. While travelling towards Bannerghatta, there is a curve which leads to Bannerghatta National Park and there is a straight road just next to it which takes us to the Champakadhama temple. The temple is at the foothills and the complex is nice with a huge gopuram resembling temples of Tamil Nadu and once having darshan of the Lord, we can proceed towards Laxminarasimhaswamy temple for which we have to climb a rocky boulder with steps carved on it. The climb itself is not very taxing and can be easily done by people of all ages. the route takes us to a small temple enroute and then will lead us into the jungles of Bannerghatta. Its a nice walk with pilgrims walking alongside so there is not a sense of loneliness on the way. It is believed that this is home to a variety of bird species but we could not spot many as it was mid-day. On the way there is a trail of stones made into a circular path within which we can complete a round would yield us blessings. Further ahead we have the Suvarnamukhi pond after which the entire place is named. The pond is believed to have medicinal powers and there is a small temple as well. Here a lot of people can be seen having a dip in the holy waters and visiting the temple. The pilgrims usually complete this 4 km trek and head back towards Bannerghatta.

           

The more adventurous can take the onward route which takes us to Kagglipura on Kanakapura road passing through Thottikal falls and a small but beautiful village. The trek is of around 4 kms and will lead to the base of the falls. The waterfalls are great during the rains when there is plenty of water. There is a small temple as well after the falls dedicated to Muneeshwara swamy. On crossing the TK falls the road leads to Kagglipura through a village and farmlands which is pleasing to the eyes. This should make a complete day's trip.            

How to reach: There are frequent buses from Majestic, KR Market and Shivajinagar to Bannerghatta to reach Champakadhama temple. From Kagglipura again there are plenty of buses heading towards Majestic, KR Market, and Banashankari.  

Food/Accommodation: Not many options available for food. Its better to carry food and water from home.

Map: 

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